Akai Professional has just released the MPC Sample, a new portable music production device aimed at bringing the iconic workflow of the MPC line to a wider audience—and at a significantly lower price point. The standalone sampler and groovebox, teased earlier this month on X (formerly Twitter), immediately caught the attention of musicians and producers, not only for its functionality but also for its retro-inspired design. It evokes memories of classic Akai MPCs like the MPC3000 and MPC60, while also bearing a striking resemblance to the Super Famicom gaming console.
The MPC Sample isn’t just about aesthetics, though. Akai is positioning this as a fully capable instrument, packing in features typically found in more expensive hardware. It boasts 16 velocity-sensitive MPC pads with polyphonic aftertouch, allowing for expressive and nuanced playing. The device supports 32 stereo voices of polyphony and includes a built-in sequencer for creating complete tracks. This combination of tactile control and powerful features aims to provide a compelling creative experience for both seasoned MPC users and newcomers alike.
A Portable Studio in Your Hands
The core of the MPC Sample lies in its sampling capabilities. Akai has included an easily accessible “chop mode” for quickly slicing and manipulating audio, alongside time-stretching and repitching tools. Samples can be visually edited via a waveform display on the full-color LCD screen. Crucially, the MPC Sample allows for internal resampling with effects, opening up possibilities for creating unique and layered soundscapes. The device offers access to four effects engines and a library of 60 different effects, providing a versatile toolkit for sound design.
The MPC Sample ships with over 100 factory drum kits to get users started, but the real power comes from the ability to load in custom samples. It features 8GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card slot. Connectivity options include MIDI inputs for connecting keyboards and other controllers, as well as the ability to integrate with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) for more extensive production workflows.
Under the Hood: Specs and Considerations
While the MPC Sample offers a lot of functionality for its price, it’s important to consider its specifications. The device has 2GB of RAM, which, while sufficient for many tasks, is less than the 16GB found in the higher-complete MPC X. As Sweetwater notes, this positions the Sample as a more streamlined experience, focusing on core sampling and sequencing features. For users requiring extensive sample libraries or complex projects, the MPC X remains the more powerful option, though at a significantly higher cost—nearly $3,000.
Akai MPC Sample
Powering the MPC Sample is a rechargeable battery offering approximately five hours of use. While respectable, Here’s less than some competitors, such as Teenage Engineering’s EP series, which can achieve longer battery life but require AA batteries. The MPC Sample also includes a built-in speaker, though, as with most devices of this type, using headphones is recommended for critical listening and detailed sound monitoring.
A Competitive Landscape
The release of the MPC Sample comes alongside other recent portable sampler offerings. Casio recently unveiled the SX-C1, a sampler that also draws inspiration from classic gaming consoles, specifically the Game Boy. MusicRadar highlights the SX-C1’s unique aesthetic and potential as a budget-friendly creative tool. The MPC Sample, though, distinguishes itself with its deeper integration of the established MPC workflow and its more comprehensive feature set.
The price point is perhaps the most significant factor in the MPC Sample’s appeal. At $400, it undercuts many of its competitors while still delivering a powerful and versatile music production experience. The device is available for purchase now through Akai’s website and authorized dealers.
What’s Next for the MPC Line?
Akai’s release of the MPC Sample signals a clear intent to broaden the accessibility of its renowned MPC platform. The company is likely to continue exploring innovative ways to bring its signature workflow to new audiences, potentially through further iterations of the Sample or the development of new software integrations. Users can expect ongoing firmware updates and potential expansions of the Sample’s feature set based on user feedback. The next scheduled update from Akai regarding the MPC line is expected during the NAMM show in June 2024, where they typically unveil new products and software features.
The MPC Sample represents a compelling option for musicians and producers seeking a portable, affordable, and powerful sampling and sequencing solution. What are your thoughts on the new MPC Sample? Share your comments below, and let us know how you plan to incorporate it into your music production workflow.
